ABSTRACT
Currently 15 species of dasyurid marsupials are placed in the genus Antechinus. These shrew-like marsupials occur throughout Australia and New Guinea, in most vegetation types, from desert to rain forest. Antechinus stuartii, a forest dweller of eastern Australia, exhibits a complete mortality of males in August or September at the end of the annual 2-week mating season. The females tend to be difficult to trap, especially from October to December during lactation. The best times for census are March to July. Best results are obtained with sheet-metal traps with treadle mechanism. Use a peanut butter-rolled oats mixture or pieces of bacon. Neither bait is eaten by all individuals. Although not docile, Antechinus may be handled with ease as teeth do not generally penetrate human skin. They may be removed from the trap by an unprotected hand and restrained by the nape of the neck for inspection and marking. Clipping toes is the best method for marking.
